Arts In Service Program Receives Grant From AZ Department Of Veteran Services

Mesa Arts Center has announced the continuation of Arts in Service for the 2019-2020 season, thanks in part to a $51,700 grant received from AZ Department of Veteran Services.

The Arts in Service program provides creative pathways for veterans and service members to use studio arts experiences in reaching their personal goals, whether those are finding a supportive community, stress relief, working toward overall health and wellness, or pursuing career interests in art making. The spring 2019 Arts in Service participants will showcase their artwork and be celebrated in a free public reception held May 17, 5-7 p.m. in Mesa Arts Center’s Art Studios.

“This is my second welding experience through the Arts in Service program,” said army veteran Luisa Hall Valdez. “There’s something so therapeutic about metals and hammers and fire! I’m really loving the creativity and freedom of expression this medium offers and am so grateful for these organizations supporting veterans through art.”

To date, nearly 200 individuals have participated in Arts in Service arts classes offered through the program, which has also been generously supported by The Boeing Company. Examples of classes offered through the Arts in Service include Intro to Printmaking, Beginning Welding, and Beginning Bellydancing, among others.

“We are so excited to offer these programs and to further engage those who serve our country,” said Cindy Ornstein, Executive Director of Mesa Arts Center. “There is tremendous evidence from both research and experience that the arts offer many kinds benefits, from reducing feelings of isolation to providing new means of self-expression, in addition to offering fun, relaxation, and creative exploration.”

The fall Arts in Service program will begin in August 2019, at which time enrollment will be available for classes in both performing and visual arts. No arts experience is necessary for participants. Fall class offerings will be announced in the coming months.

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